It is with great regret that our conference has voted to end the 2020 competitive field band season. After meeting for several months and creating multiple contingency plans, our directors remained hopeful that some version of our traditional in-person season could be offered. However, after careful research and discussion with directors, consultants and other state associations, the New York State Field Band Conference has decided that the 2020 competitive field band season must be cancelled.
While we are extremely disappointed in this outcome, the NYSFBC remains committed to offering educational experiences for our member schools, students, directors and communities. The NYSFBC is currently exploring several virtual performance options and will send out additional information about these opportunities in the coming weeks. Additionally, the NYSFBC is optimistic that individual school districts may be able to safely allow in-person band rehearsals and parent/community performances this fall. The NYSFBC highly encourages the exploration of this possibility, where appropriate, so that students may participate in this wonderful activity that provides a vital piece of the social-emotional education of the students in New York State.
We share in the immense disappointment of our performing students, educators, parents and fans. It shall continue to be the mission of the New York State Field Band Conference to encourage and provide a positive experience for all participants. We will still work to create opportunities for our students throughout the upcoming calendar year. Despite the lack of a formal competitive 2020 season, marching band in New York State will still exist. We will do everything in our power as directors to support and cultivate marching band for our current and future students.
The importance of the marching arts to our communities cannot be understated, and we cannot wait to see our students on the field again in the near future.